Derby County central defender Alan Stubbs has retired after failing to recover from a serious knee injury, reports BBC.

Scans revealed a recurrence of the problem that ended his 2007/08 season and resulted in him undergoing surgery.

The 36-year-old battled back to full fitness but was forced off on the opening day of this campaign.

The former Celtic, Everton and Sunderland player began his career as a trainee at Bolton, where he made over 200 appearances in a six-year spell.

He made eight appearances in the Premier League last season before being ruled out in April.

Stubbs left Everton and moved to Pride Park on an 18-month deal on the last day of this year's January transfer window.

He spent a season in England's top flight with Bolton before joining Celtic for £3.5m in 1996.

Stubbs twice overcame testicular cancer during his time at the Scottish club and played 127 matches for the Bhoys in his five years at Parkhead.The Merseysider joined Everton on a free transfer in July 2001 and made 142 appearances for the Goodison Park outfit before joining Sunderland.

He only stayed at the Stadium of Light for one season before returning to Everton.

Stubbs has brought his career to an end after 551 starts, 45 substitute appearances and 27 goals.